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The Salvation Army Remains in West, TX, as Residents Begin Long Term Recovery
The Salvation Army Establishes Warehouse as Residents Return to West, Texas
Local authorities have completed the initial damage assessment of the area concluding that 73 homes have been completed destroyed, 59 homes sustained major damage, a further 78 residences have minor damage, and an additional 61 homes have been affected in other ways. Two phases of residents were allowed to return to their homes today before the 7:00 PM curfew was invoked with two more phases expected to return tomorrow.
A Joint Assistance Center (JAC) has been established at 2547 Jerry Mashek Drive in West, as one central location where residents can have access to assistance from a range of relief agencies. Social Services Staff from The Salvation Army in Waco will be responsible to process applications from residents and provide support, Monday-Friday from 8:30 AM-7:00 PM, in the form of Walmart gift cards, counseling and case management. One Disaster Canteen (mobile kitchen) will remain at the JAC, another will work in the affected neighborhoods, with the remaining two units covering the Community Center and the Command Post. It is anticipated that the canteen services will continue for at least the coming week.
Since the response began within hours of the fertilizer plant explosion on Wednesday evening The Salvation Army has provided 2,945 meals, 2,526 drinks, and 1,385 snacks. So far, Salvation Army Officers, staff and volunteers have served for a combined number of 1,985 hours. As people return to their homes it is anticipated that spiritual care will become a key aspect of The Salvation Army response. To date, 137 residents and first responders have received prayer and spiritual care.